Re: Tips for a Shaky Senior
Counterintuitively, even muscle tremors do not need to be an impediment to good shooting.
The key to a solution most likely lies in a combination of a good natural, relaxed position; and reliable additional support. Essentially, the things that make Bench Rest shooting sucessful are the things you can use to steady up your rifle. By reducing the role the body plays in supporting and triggering the rifle, the better the undesired effects of the body's behavior can be screened out of the process.
If you desire to compete, your condition should qualify as a handicap, and most match directors will likely permit you some leeway with your shooting procedure/equipment. Their approach is (or should be) to be inclusive, rather than exclusive, of handicapped shooters.
(Individuals who run public matches should be aware that handicapped shooters do exist, should be welcomed, and that it is beneficial to all inolved to make sufficient accomodation as to make them want to return.)
Some sort of Physicians statement confirming that the condition is real can be helpful.
Don't be reluctant to consult a Physician about this, because (shooting aside) such conditions can be treatable, and ignoring them when they are small is a good way to ensure they won't stay small.
While you need not feel constrained to emulate the conventional shooting approach; there's no reason why you shouldn't. Just don't condemn yourself to believing it's the only acceptable one. There's nothing wrong with admitting an impediment and assisting oneself with reasonable available augmentations.
I'm 65 and have significant joint and cardiopulmonary limitations. Honestly, I am physically unable to achieve my previously normal degree of achievement. But I don't let it discourage me, I simply strive for my best, whatever that turns out to be.
I don't compete with others, I compete with myself, and I can be a tough competitor for myself sometimes. When I really think about it, that's all I've ever actually been doing since the beginning anyway.
I still shoot F Class (although other commitments have kept me off the range recently until now). I employ a folded pad for some chest support, and sometimes need to have somebody help with getting the targets out and back.
Folks have been very understanding of these things, and I'm genuinely grateful for their help. It reflects rather more upon their better aspects than upon my limitations; and if I can provide them with an opportunity to feel the pleasure of doing a good deed for another, that pleases me too.
Greg
No help there. Any other senior shooters out there with any advice? Thanks!
